The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) and the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) have announced their collaboration to form a unified organization that will represent the entire plastics supply chain—from technical professionals to corporate leaders, and from molecule to marketplace.

Both Boards of Directors voted last week to accept the recommendation of a task group formed to explore a potential merger. The group’s conclusion was presented to the respective Boards under the banner of “Better Together,” outlining how the industry and the organization’s members would benefit from bringing these two storied organizations together.

“This is a historic day for the plastics industry,” said Matt Seaholm, President & CEO of PLASTICS. “PLASTICS is leading the industry in many ways—sustainability, market insights, advocacy, and of course, NPE. SPE has built an incredible legacy of technical education, scientific research, and professional development. By bringing our organizations together, we’re creating a stronger, more connected platform to serve our members and advance the industry.”

“SPE is excited to be joining forces with PLASTICS,” added Patrick Farrey, CEO of SPE. “For SPE members, this is about opportunity. Our technical expertise and professional development programs will now reach more people, supported by the resources and global platform that PLASTICS brings. This combination ensures we continue to serve plastics professionals while advancing the entire industry.”

The organizations have signed an agreement to finalize the merger by the end of 2025. Then, SPE will become a division of PLASTICS, with the full operational integration expected to begin on January 1, 2026.

Under the terms of the agreement:

• SPE will become a division of PLASTICS, governed by an Executive Committee modeled after SPE’s current leadership structure.
• SPE members will retain their membership status, benefits, and identity within the new division as part of the merged organization.
• Patrick Farrey will join PLASTICS as Executive Vice President of SPE and Chief Integration Officer, leading the transition and ensuring continuity for SPE’s programs and stakeholders.

“This is a transformational moment,” said Jamie Clark, Chairman of PLASTICS Board of Directors. “By aligning our complementary strengths, we’re building a powerful engine for workforce development, advocacy, and global engagement. This is going to be a great thing for the members of both organizations.”

“SPE has always been about people—educating, connecting, and empowering them,” said Scott Eastman, Ph.D., Chairman of SPE Board of Directors. “The SPE Board believes this merger will amplify our mission and position us to elevate the reputation of plastics professionals worldwide.”

Founded in 1937, PLASTICS has long served as the leading voice for the plastics industry. SPE, founded in 1942, has built a global reputation for advancing plastics science and engineering.